Gravel Calculator
Your estimate
- Weight (tons)
- 2.75 tons5,506 lb · 2.5 t
- Estimated cost
- $124
Driveways, paths, patios and drainage — yards, tons and bags for every common type of gravel.
Updated 2026-10-20 · Based on: supplier bulk densities (gravel ≈ 1.4 tons per yd³).
How to use the Gravel Calculator
- Enter the length and width (or diameter) and the depth.
- Choose the gravel type — weights differ.
- Add 5 % for spreading and compaction.
- Enter the price per ton to see the cost.
Formula
Cubic yards = length × width × depth (ft) ÷ 27.
Tons = cubic yards × weight per yard. Gravel weighs about 1.4 tons per yd³ (1,680 kg/m³); pea gravel about 1.3; road base about 1.7.
Worked example
With the values preset in the calculator above: (Rectangle)
- Length
- 20 ft
- Width
- 10 ft
- Thickness
- 3 in
- Material
- Gravel
- Extra for waste
- 5 %
- Gravel needed
- 1.94 yd³ (52.5 ft³)
- Weight (tons)
- 2.75 tons (5,506 lb)
- Estimated cost
- $124
- Bags (0.5 ft³ / 25 kg)
- 105
How much gravel do I need?
A 10 × 10 ft area at 3 in deep needs 0.93 yd³ (25 ft³), which weighs about 1.31 tons of regular gravel.
How deep should gravel be?
- Walkways and patios: 2–3 in (5–8 cm).
- Driveways: 4–6 in in two layers — 4 in of #3 or road base, 2 in of #57 on top.
- Under pavers: 4–6 in of compacted crushed stone.
- French drains and drainage: fill the trench.
Gravel for common areas
| Length (ft) | Width (ft) | Thickness (in) | Gravel needed | Weight (tons) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 2 | 0.62 yd³ | 0.87 tons |
| 10 | 10 | 3 | 0.93 yd³ | 1.31 tons |
| 10 | 20 | 3 | 1.85 yd³ | 2.62 tons |
| 12 | 50 | 4 | 7.41 yd³ | 10.49 tons |
| 20 | 50 | 4 | 12.35 yd³ | 17.48 tons |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a yard of gravel weigh?
About 2,800 lb (1.4 tons) for general gravel. Pea gravel is a little lighter, crushed base heavier, and wet gravel heavier still.
How many tons of gravel for a driveway?
A 12 × 50 ft driveway at 4 in deep needs about 11.01 tons.
How many square feet does a ton of gravel cover?
About 110 ft² at 2 in deep, or 75 ft² at 3 in (general gravel at 1.4 tons per yd³).
What is the best gravel for a driveway?
Crushed stone with angular edges (#57 over a #3 or road-base layer) locks together. Round pea gravel moves under tyres.
More calculators
Estimates only — check quantities with your supplier and local building code before you order.